lieb haben

Etymology
From, thus literally “to have [someone] dear”. Compare 🇨🇬, 🇨🇬.

Verb

 * 1)  to love

Usage notes

 * The verb does not exist in many traditional German dialects and may retain a slightly solemn sound in the contemporary language. Therefore, lieb haben is the most normal and “down-to-earth” way of expressing love in German, particularly among friends and family, but usually also between lovers.
 * It is difficult to conceptualize the different sentimental values of both verbs. In some contexts, lieb haben may imply a weaker kind of love than lieben, whereas in others it may sound particularly affectionate. For instance, a formal declaration of love (“saying the L-word”) calls for the verb, but a kiss good night will be accompanied by.